How Seniors Can Welcome a New Pet Into the Home

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Senior citizens and pets can be a perfect match. Seniors may have more time to devote to an animal, and pets can provide older adults with companionship and entertainment. Before you welcome a new pet, though, consider a few of the things listed below, courtesy of Cute to the Bone Dog Grooming.

Examining the Pros and Cons of Owning a Pet

Pasadena Animal Shelter confirms that adopting a new pet isn't something to enter into lightly. Owning a pet can certainly bring plenty of benefits. Pets provide excellent companionship and a sense of purpose for seniors. They can also be a never-ending source of entertainment and enjoyment.

But pets require plenty of work and upkeep. Dogs need walking. Cats need their litter boxes scooped. Small pets, such as gerbils, need their cages cleaned. They all need feeding. Be aware of all this before deciding to get a pet.

Choosing the Right Pet

Martha Stewart advises choosing the right pet for your lifestyle. If you aren't home much, a cat or small pet might be a better choice than a dog. If you want to get more exercise, perhaps the task of dog walking can get you moving. If you're looking for minimal upkeep, you might choose a fish or a hamster. Your personal preferences also help you determine the right pet for you.

Preparing for Your Pet

Before you bring your new pet home, make sure everything is set up and ready to go. Purchase necessary food, bedding, toys, and supplies, and designate a space in your home just for your new pet. Also, be sure your home is clean and pet-proof. Put away breakables that a new pet might knock over, and secure any potentially harmful areas or substances. Check doors and windows to ensure your pet can't get out. Also, take a survey of your home office if you have one, and remove anything that your pet may access. Less obvious items like paper clips and thumbtacks can quickly end up in an animal’s paw or mouth.

Also, you may want to find a local pet sitter, just in case you need to leave your new pet behind for a business trip or vacation. A pet sitter will handle a number of different tasks while you’re away, including feeding, walking, cleaning cages/crates, and ensuring your pet has everything they need until your return. Having a pet sitter in your contacts is also important just in case you need to head out of town unexpectedly and can’t bring your pet with you.

Settling in Your New Pet

Be prepared for a period of adjustment as your new pet settles in. If possible, confine your pet to one room or area at first and introduce it to the rest of your home gradually. If you're adopting a dog, show it around outside, and make sure a new cat knows the location of the litter box and scratching post. Set up a schedule for yourself and your pet so you can both develop a routine.

Most important of all, be patient.

Keeping Your Home Clean

Pets make messes. This is simply part of life with a pet. But even when you have a pet, you can keep your home clean by noticing messes promptly and cleaning them up immediately. Purchase pet-friendly cleaning products designed for tackling tough pet messes, and use lint rollers to control pet hair.

If you end up with a stubborn stain on your upholstery that won't come out, consider hiring an upholstery cleaning company. Do some research on local furniture cleaners online, and pay special attention to customer reviews. When you've selected some likely candidates, call to discuss your needs and get quotes. You can request referrals from satisfied customers as well and ensure the company doesn't use all-in-one cleaning tools or products unsafe for pets.

Enjoying Your Pet

Having a pet can be an extremely rewarding experience, so once you've carefully considered and prepared, go out and adopt your new best friend at your local humane society.

Cute to the Bone Dog Grooming has everything your pet needs to look his or her absolute best.

Article By Cindy Aldridge

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